This Firehouse Near Boston Is Actually A Hotel And You’ll Want To Spend The Night

It’s no secret that Boston area hotels are pricy — a 2016 study by CheapHotels.org ranked our city as second in the nation in terms of average hotel price per night. To make the most of the money you spend on a hotel here, it’s best to pick a unique one. That way your accommodation enhances your experience of Boston, rather than quickly fading from memory.

There’s a hotel across the Charles River from Boston that does just that. The Kendall Hotel is located inside a converted firehouse in Cambridge. The Engine 7 Firehouse is on the National Register of Historic Places and staying here is a one-of-a-kind experience.

Built in 1895, this building served as an active firehouse until it closed in 1993. The structure was in danger of being demolished until it was purchased by a couple hoping to change it into a hotel while maintaining the historic architecture.

The three-story-high front portion of the hotel is the original firehouse. You can see where the fire trucks used to pull in.

The tower behind it was added to increase the capacity of the hotel. Still, this remains a boutique hotel with 73 rooms and four suites.

The firehouse theme doesn’t extend to the rooms, which feature homey, Americana-inspired décor.

However, firefighter memorabilia is scattered throughout the common spaces, from antique fire patches…

….to model fire engines…

... and lots of Dalmatians!

Amenities include a convenient on-site restaurant and bar called Black Sheep —named after the firefighters here, who viewed themselves as the black sheep of the department.

From Monday to Thursday, guests are treated to free wine, provided in the Rooftop Retreat, where you can also admire the lovely views of Boston.

While technically not in Boston, the Kendall is situated a block from a T-station, so it’s a breeze to explore the city via public transportation.

The Kendall Hotel is located at 350 Main Street in Cambridge.

For more information, visit the hotel’s website here.

If you're planning a trip to Boston, you may also be interested in dining at these iconic restaurants and these tips for out-of-towners.